What is the purpose of applying a tag during a Tag Out procedure?

Applying a tag during a Tag Out procedure is crucial in ensuring safety within the workplace, particularly when dealing with electrical equipment. The primary purpose of the tag is to alert workers that the equipment is de-energized and should not be operated. This is significant because tags serve as a warning signal to anyone who might approach the equipment, clearly indicating that it has been intentionally made safe for maintenance or repair work.

The visual presence of a tag acts as a straightforward communication tool that conveys the status of the equipment, ensuring that all personnel are aware of its condition. This practice helps prevent accidental startup or energizing of the equipment, thereby reducing the risk of electrical shock, injuries, or even fatalities that can occur if someone is unaware that maintenance is being performed.

Moreover, while there are other functions that a tag may play in varying contexts, like indicating repairs are ongoing or informing about previous safety issues, the core role of the tag within the Tag Out procedure is fundamentally about alerting personnel to the de-energized status of the equipment. This visibility and awareness are critical components of workplace safety protocols.